The Pearl River Tower in Guangzhou/China, is a 71-story building whose unique structural form is one of the most energy-efficient skyscrapers in the world.

The 2.3-million square-foot tower redefines what's possible in sustainable design by incorporating the latest sustainable technology and engineering advancements. Due to the unique shape of the building, as well as the wind and seismic loads imposed on the tower, the design integrates structural systems, in both steel and reinforced concrete are utilized.
Among the structural innovations are integrated wind turbines. These turbines, which are fed from funnel-like openings in the facade, are supported on floor slabs occurring within the opening zones and are laterally braced against the floor above.

Architect:

SOM Skidmore, Owings, Merrill LLP
24 S. Michigan Ave • 60604 Chicago / US
Tel.: 001-312-554-9090 • Fax: 001-312-360-4545
eMail: somchicago@som.com • web: www.som.com

Picture Credit: SOM Architects